2018 Chevrolet Equinox Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Resolve Tire Pressure Warning Light in 2018 Chevrolet Equinox

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Tire Leaking Air
0%
30% chance it's the
Wheel Leaking Air
0%
15% chance it's the
Tire Pressure Monitoring System
0%
15% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2018 Chevrolet Equinox tire pressure warning light stays on are a leaking tire, a wheel that no longer holds air, or a faulty tire pressure monitoring system.
  • Tire Leaking Air: A puncture, valve stem issue, or rim damage can cause a tire to leak air, leading to loss of pressure.
  • Wheel Leaking Air: A puncture or damage to the tire or rim can cause air to leak, resulting in a loss of tire pressure.
  • Tire Pressure Monitoring System: A malfunctioning tire pressure monitoring system can be caused by faulty sensors or a dead battery in the sensor units.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2018 Chevrolet Equinox tire pressure warning light stays on?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

When a tire pressure monitoring sensor fails, the tire pressure monitoring system control module will recognize a loss in communication and turn on the warning lamp which indicates the failure. This is most often the case. However, the tire pressure monitoring sensor may also fail by reporting incorrect tire pressures. This could cause a flat tire to go unrecognized, or a properly inflated tire to signal a low or high tire pressure warning.

When a relearn is needed, for any reason, the TPMS warning light will illuminate, and many vehicles will display a message relating to the TPMS system being inoperative or loosing communication. It is important to keep a watchful eye on tire pressures when this system is having issues because there is no warning available for underinflation or overinflation of the tires.

The only symptoms requiring diagnosis for the tire pressure monitoring system warning lamp is if the warning lamp has illuminated while the tires have correct air pressure, or if the air pressure for the tires is out of specification and the warning lamp is off. This is because the overwhelming majority of cases where the TPMS lamp illuminates is due to the change in ambient temperature.

What are the initial steps to diagnose the tire pressure warning light on a 2018 Chevrolet Equinox?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure warning light on your 2018 Chevrolet Equinox, begin with a straightforward approach that prioritizes simple checks before delving into more complex solutions. Start by using a tire pressure gauge to measure the air pressure in all four tires, ensuring that they align with the recommended levels found in your owner's manual. This initial step is crucial, as incorrect tire pressure is a common trigger for the warning light. Next, conduct a visual inspection of each tire for any visible damage, such as cuts, punctures, or bulges, which could indicate a more serious issue. If the tire pressure is correct and no damage is evident, proceed to reset the tire pressure monitoring system according to the instructions in your manual; this can often clear false alerts. However, if the warning light remains illuminated after these steps, it may be time to consult a professional mechanic who can conduct a thorough inspection of both the tires and the monitoring system. By following this diagnostic approach, you can efficiently address the warning light and maintain your vehicle's safety and performance.

What could cause the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2018 Chevrolet Equinox?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in a 2018 Chevrolet Equinox, it can be attributed to several common problems that DIYers can investigate. The most frequent culprit is low tire pressure, which can occur due to natural air loss, punctures, or leaks. Checking the tire pressure with a reliable gauge is a straightforward first step. If the pressure is adequate, the issue may lie with a faulty tire pressure sensor, which could be malfunctioning and failing to provide accurate readings. Additionally, the sensors are equipped with batteries that can deplete over time; if the battery is dead, it will need replacement to restore functionality. Electrical issues, such as damaged wiring or blown fuses, can also trigger the warning light, so inspecting the vehicle's electrical system is essential. Lastly, if the tire pressure monitoring system has not been calibrated correctly, it may require recalibration to ensure it operates accurately. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial for maintaining vehicle safety and performance, and if the light persists after these checks, consulting a qualified mechanic is recommended for further diagnosis.

How urgent is it to address the tire pressure warning light that stays on in a 2018 Chevrolet Equinox?

Addressing the tire pressure warning light in your 2018 Chevrolet Equinox is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical safety issue that demands immediate attention. When this warning light remains illuminated, it signals that your tires may be underinflated, which can severely compromise your vehicle's handling and braking capabilities. This is particularly dangerous in adverse weather conditions, where the risk of accidents increases significantly. Moreover, driving on underinflated tires can lead to uneven wear, necessitating costly premature tire replacements. Additionally, low tire pressure can negatively impact your fuel efficiency, resulting in higher fuel costs over time. Perhaps most concerning is the risk of tire damage, which could culminate in a blowout while driving, posing a serious threat to your safety and that of others on the road. Therefore, it is essential to check and adjust your tire pressure according to the manufacturer's specifications as soon as the warning light activates, or consult a professional if you are unsure. Ignoring this warning can lead to dire consequences, making prompt action not just advisable, but imperative for your safety and the longevity of your vehicle.

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